Earwax Removal Appointment
Ear wax, also called cerumen, is naturally formed in the ears to lubricate the canal and prevent debris from getting to the eardrum. The ear is self-cleaning, and wax typically clears on its own, but often it can accumulate and cause a blockage, especially if you wear something in your ears that prevents the wax from getting out.
A blockage may include:
- Pain
- Ringing of the ears
- Muffled sounds and decreased hearing
- Feeling of fullness
- Dizziness
If a blockage is found, it probably needs removing.
At-Home Earwax Removal
Sometimes, you may use an earwax removal kit purchased over the counter at the drug stores. Kits usually consist of a peroxide-based liquid to soften earwax and a small rubber bulb syringe to irrigate the canal. Follow directions on how much and how often to apply the liquid. Laying on your side allows it to soak for a short amount of time to soften the earwax. Bubbling and fizzing sensations are normal. Then use the bulb syringe to gently flush your ears with warm water to remove the debris. It may take several days to clear a severe blockage completely. Before attempting at-home earwax removal, it is advised to speak with your hearing care provider to be sure it is safe for you.
Avoid using cotton swabs on a blockage since it may push the blockage further down into the ear canal, making removal even more difficult and possibly damaging the ear canal or ear drum. Cotton swabs, in general, can be a risky solution for wax maintenance.
Professional Ear Wax Removal
Earwax may need to be removed at the hearing care professional’s office. Typically there are two methods of removal: irrigation or curettage.
Irrigation is similar to the at-home method, simply with stronger softening solutions and in conjunction with stronger irrigation methods.
Curettage involves the use of a curette which is a long, curved tool that may also be used to drag out debris or with suction to remove cerumen.
At our offices, we can use either method to remove the wax. Our curette can be attached to a video otoscope so you and the specialist can see what needs to be done.
If you suspect you have a blockage or experience any of the above symptoms, contact your hearing health professional as soon as possible to find a solution and get relief.
Call to request professional earwax removal at 808-935-6358.